Overview
Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems are available for most Modesto Irrigation District’s
(MID) electric customers. PV systems may be obtained by purchase or may be leased
or rented. Power purchase agreements (PPA) may also be available. MID offers
incentives to customers who purchase a PV system (limited to available funding).
Leased, rented and PPA systems are not eligible for MID incentive programs.
An Interconnection Review Fee is required for all PV systems (includes purchases,
leased, rented, PPA and additions to existing PV systems). The fee must be included
with the reservation (application) packet. See MID Electric Service Rules – Appendix
A for fee amount(s).

MID Incentives
The MID Solar PV Incentive Programs provide financial incentives for the installation of
grid-interconnected eligible solar PV systems.
This handbook describes the
requirements to receive incentives for qualified installations within Modesto Irrigation
District’s electric service territory.
Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis for applicants who submit
complete and accurate reservation requests.
2015 incentives become available
starting January 5th and will be suspended when the program is fully subscribed.
Reservations are limited to one Solar PV system per service per calendar year.
Customers may submit a reservation request for additions to their solar PV system
after a minimum of 12 months service (after interconnection of the previous PV
system).
Funding for the program is provided by Modesto Irrigation District ratepayers in
accordance with the eligibility requirements established under SB1.
Systems less than 1 kWAC-CSI and systems greater than 30 kWAC-CSI do not qualify for
the 2015 MID Solar PV Incentive Program. A one-time Expected Performance-Based
Incentive (EPBI) is available to all MID metered electric customers. Rebates are
limited to a maximum of 5 kW ac-csi or a system sized to offset 100% of the
customers load (whichever is less).
In order to receive an incentive payment from Modesto Irrigation District, the system
must have an approved reservation prior to system installation. Any system that has
been installed prior to receiving a reservation confirmation is ineligible for incentive
payments.
Incentive payments are made to the customer / property owner and are not
transferable to new owners, contractors or other third parties.

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Incentive Program Details
The MID Solar PV Incentive Program provides incentives for residential and nonresidential customers for both new and existing structures. For all projects, energy
efficiency, the expected performance of the system, as well as the design and
installation of the system, will determine the incentive amount.
Systems approved after July 20, 2009 are subject to a maximum incentive of 50% of
eligible project cost.
Systems approved after January 1, 2015 are limited based on the least of the
following:
 Maximum incentive of 50% of eligible project cost,
 5 kWAC-CSI, or
 Sized to offset 100% of the customers energy usage.
The EPBI is paid once the system is installed, operational and has met all program
requirements. The incentive amount is based on the CSI calculation worksheet
(www.csi-epbb.com).
For all larger systems, over 30 kWAC-CSI (up to 1,000 kWAC-CSI), the incentives have
been suspended.

Energy Usage Calculations
Energy usage is determined by MID staff based on the annual average of the last 24
month energy usage. If this data is not available the maximum system size will be
determined using one of the following methods:
 Last 12 month energy usage,
 24 month energy usage for current and prior tenant
 Monthly energy usage average (minimum 6 months usage required).
 New construction energy usage may also be estimated based on square footage
of home.

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Requirements
The solar PV system must be installed and verified as specified in this handbook and
the MID Electric Service Guide. MID reserves the right to periodically review and
make changes to program standards and to determine final program eligibility.
To qualify for an incentive, both the building and the installed PV system must meet
the following program requirements included in this handbook.

Eligibility
The electrical service for the building must receive retail electricity distribution service
at the site of installation from Modesto Irrigation District. The following conditions
must also be met:
 Rebates are eligible only to customers in good financial standing with MID
(subject to MID approval).
 Landlords may apply for MID solar rebates if they and the tenant (MID customer
of record) are in good financial standing with MID. The customer of record will
receive all net metering and excess generation benefits.
The landlord
(purchaser) of the PV system will receive the MID incentive.
 Solar PV systems where MID has built an electrical line extension (MID Rule 15)
to serve a new load within the last three years are not eligible for Solar PV
rebates.
 Systems must be owned by the Modesto Irrigation District’s electric customer
and/or the property owner. Leased and/or performance based projects, power
purchase agreements and non-owned systems are NOT eligible for an incentive.
 Eligible PV systems must be installed on the property that is owned by the MID
customer of record.
 Qualifying manufactured mobile or modular homes must demonstrate
permanency by being installed on a foundation with a reasonable expected life
span of 20 years and where the home and the property are owned by the MID
customer of record.
 Previously owned equipment is ineligible for MID incentives.

Reservation Requests
MID will only accept the most current version of the
Request Form/Program Contract. See www.mid.org
Request is the most current version. Applicants are
copies of all Reservation Requests and supporting
Modesto Irrigation District or its agents.

Systems installed prior to receiving a reservation approval letter are ineligible for
incentives.

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Projected MID incentives should not be itemized in the project cost.
All documentation must be legible.
customer/owner.

All documents must be signed by the

Incentive Rate
Incentive rate is determined by the system size and the Reservation Request approval
date.

Incomplete Reservation Package
Solar PV packages are reviewed in the order they are received. MID will notify the
contractor of any missing or incorrect documents in the file.
All required
documentation must be received within 30 calendar days of the original application
date.
Incomplete Solar PV packages may not be accepted and may be returned to the
customer.
Resubmitted application packages will be treated as new applications (i.e., all required
documents and fees must be submitted) and processed in sequence along with other
new applications.

System Size
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System size is determined by the Go Solar California EPBB Calculator (www.csiepbb.com).
The solar PV system must have a minimum capacity rating of 1 kWAC-CSI.
Maximum capacity rating is 30 kWAC-CSI.
Customer is determined by MID Account Number, MID Meter Number and
Federal Tax Identification Number(s).
Reservation Requests for service(s) with existing PV system(s) will include
generation history when calculating incentive eligibility.
In the case of existing loads, customer electrical needs are defined as 24-month
annual average billing usage (history). If 24-month usage history is not
available, MID may determine system a reasonable usage history for the
purpose of system sizing (current/prior tenant or estimation based on square
footage of home/business).
For new loads, customer electrical needs (annual kWh) are determined by MID
using Title 24 information, Energy Simulation software, or other like customer
usage. Maximum system size cannot exceed 100% of MID calculation of annual
energy for new construction projects.
MID reserves the right to determine maximum system size eligible for incentive.
Premises with multiple electric meters will be limited to one PV system per
meter. MID will not increase transformer/service capacity to facilitate PV
generation under this program.
The solar PV system must be interconnected to the utility distribution grid and
generate electricity to offset the end-use consumer’s on-site electrical load.

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The solar PV system must be located on the same premises of the end-use
consumer where the consumer’s own electrical demand is located.
Where multiple PV systems are installed, separate monitoring systems must be
maintained for each installation.
Eligible PV systems must be permanently mounted and not to a mobile
structure. In addition, the building permit for the solar system must be
approved by the building code enforcement agency before any incentive
payment is made.
Systems must be installed in conformance with the manufacturer’s
specifications and all applicable electrical and building codes and standards.
All systems must be inspected by a certified contractor (written verification
required for system approval).
Solar installers must have an active “A” or “C-10” license to install solar PV
system 20kW CEC-AC or greater. Acceptable licenses for all other systems
include active “A”, “C-10”,”B”, or “C-46”.
Systems must be installed by an appropriately licensed contractor, in
accordance with rules and regulations adopted by the California Contractors
State License Board.
MID requires the installation of MID performance (generation) meter measuring
the alternating current output of the PV system.
Systems must meet MID standards. See the MID Electric Service Guide for
complete details.

Failed MID Inspection
If a project fails an MID inspection, the contractor has a maximum of 30 calendar
days to make the required modifications to meet MID requirements and to pass a
follow-up MID inspection. Re-inspection fee may apply for each failed inspection.

PV System
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The solar PV system must use new certified components that have not been
previously placed in service and are on the Energy Commission’s list of eligible
equipment.
All systems must have a minimum 10-year warranty provided in combination by
the manufacturer and installer to protect against defective workmanship,
system or component breakdown or degradation in electrical output of more
than 10% from the originally rated electrical output during the 10-year period.
The warranty must cover the solar generating system, including PV modules
(panels), inverters, and trackers, and provide for no-cost repair or replacement
of the system or system components, including any associated labor during the
warranty period.
The solar PV system is intended to stay in place for a minimum of 20 years.
Sale and/or transfer of energy output to third parties is prohibited.
Eligible PV systems must be permanently mounted and not to a mobile
structure. In addition, the building permit for the solar system must be

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approved by the building code enforcement agency before any incentive
payment is made.

New Construction
New construction projects include gut and rehabs, homes and businesses installing
solar. MID may not set the solar PV generation meter (thus allowing credit for solar
generation) until the home or building demonstrate normal occupancy and operation.
New residential and non-residential buildings must achieve energy efficiency levels
substantially greater than the requirements of the current Building Energy Efficiency
Standards Title 24, Part 6, also known as “Title 24” + 15% Modesto Irrigation District
places great importance on ensuring that buildings, which qualify for an incentive
under the Program, are as energy efficient as possible.
The minimal energy efficiency requirements include an energy audit or proof of Title
24 compliance, efficiency upgrades, and potential commitments to enact the
upgrades. For large Non-residential projects, retro-commissioning may also be
required.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Modesto Irrigation District to inquire
about new construction energy efficiency rebates.

PV System Modification
The installation of additional panels or other system modifications without MID
approval is prohibited. MID reserves the right to inspect and verify all interconnected
systems at any time.
Failure to notify MID of PV system modification(s) may terminate participation in the
MID Solar PV Incentive Program and may affect interconnection eligibility. MID must
be notified of all solar PV installations and /or modifications.
Any change in
application sizing after the submittal of an application, no matter how small, up or
down, will require a revised application, interconnection agreement, site plan, single
line diagram and EPBB worksheets.
Incentive will be re-evaluated as follows:
 A revised reservation request packet must be submitted with all supporting
documentation prior to request for interconnection.
 If the installed system exceeds the reserved system size, the incentive will be
capped as the reserved system size.
 If the installed system is less the reserved system size, the incentive will be
recalculated based on installed system size.
The incentive will not be issued until all required documentation is received. If the
required documentation is not received within 30 calendar days of interconnection will
no longer be eligible for incentive.

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Existing PV Systems - The customer may submit a Reservation Request for an
incentive after the existing system has been operational for 12 months.
The
additional panels may be connected to the existing inverter and/or generation meter.

Eligible Project Costs
Only those portions of a solar PV generating system that convert the energy source to
electricity and the related power conditioning and control systems are eligible to be
covered by the MID Solar PV Incentive Program. (All final project invoices must be
itemized as a condition of the incentive).
Eligible costs include:
 Installation costs including any applicable license fees, permit fees and sales
taxes
 Engineering costs and design, not to exceed 10% of total system cost
 The following specific components and equipment: The photovoltaic cells,
modules, mounting or tracking structures, wiring, inverters, performance
meters,
foundation
(for
free-standing
system)
and
utility-required
interconnection equipment.
Ineligible costs include:
 Equipment for storage of the electricity produced (such as batteries)
 Cost of capital
 Cost of tools
 Tree trimming or other landscaping costs
 Roofing, re-roofing, roof repairs or reinforcement
 Relocating vent pipes, HVAC or other equipment
 New structures or reinforcement of existing structures for fixed array PV
systems, with the exception of the racking and mounting components necessary
for tilt or securing of the PV panels, with the sole purpose to elevate the arrays,
or to serve as a multi-function structure such as covered parking.

Other Funding and/or Incentives
Funding and/or incentives received from sources other than the MID Solar PV Program
that lowers the cost of the PV system may affect the incentive amount applicants
receive.
Funds received from sources other than MID rebate programs that lower the cost of
the project may affect the incentive amount applicants receive. These sources include
all third-party energy efficiency programs offering direct funding, financing or rebates
(other than tax credits). The funded amount(s) will be deducted from the actual and
documented Project Cost as it relates to the MID criteria and the maximum accrued
rebate will not exceed 50% of net Project Costs. Applicants are required to inform MID
of any other incentives for which they have applied and/or may receive.
Failure to notify MID of other funding, grants or incentives will void the Reservation
Request and require the reimbursement of all incentives paid to date.
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Applicants are required to inform the District of any other incentives for which they
have applied and/or may receive.

Reservation Approval Process
This section describes the process required to reserve funding from the Modesto
Irrigation District Rebate program. A rebate acceptance letter provides assurance that
reserved funds will be available when a request for payment is made.
Once the system owner has decided to install a solar system and has an executed
contract with their system installer, the Reservation Application Package is submitted.
Once the reservation request is approved, an acceptance letter confirming the
incentive amount and reservation expiration date will be issued. The reservation will
expire 120 days after the approval letter is issued to the customer. The system must
be purchased, installed, and MID must receive a copy of the final approved permit the
Reservation Expiration Date to remain eligible for incentive.
Program reservation requirements and expiration dates will be strictly enforced.
Systems installed without reservation approval or prior to reservation approval are
ineligible for MID incentive.

Where to Send Reservation Packets
Reservation packets may be submitted in person, or may be mailed directly to MID.
Incomplete packets will not be accepted and will be returned to the applicant.
Office Address and mailing address:
Modesto Irrigation District
Attn: Solar PV Program
1231 11th St
P.O. Box 4060
Modesto, CA 95352-4060
Note to contractors:
Contractors with the required licensing are encouraged to participate in MID rebate programs.
If information on an application or supporting documentation includes misleading or fraudulent
data, the rebate may be denied and the contractor may not be allowed to participate in MID rebate
programs.

Systems must be interconnected by the expiration date to qualify for incentive.
Projects in the process of interconnection as described above may be granted an
extension (subject to MID approval).

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MID will exercise their judgment in assessing fraud, which can occur due to gross
negligence or intentional submission of inaccurate system information in an attempt to
collect more incentive dollars. The responsible party will be immediately prohibited
from participating in the program.

Cost Verification
Modesto Irrigation District reserves the right to conduct spot checks to verify that
payments were made as identified in the final invoices or agreements provided by
equipment sellers and/or installers. As part of these spot checks, Modesto Irrigation
District may require applicants to submit copies of cancelled checks, credit card
statements, or equivalent documentation to substantiate payments made to the
equipment seller and/or installer. (When submitting this documentation, applicants
are encouraged to remove their personal account numbers or other sensitive
information identified in the documentation.)

Renewable Energy Credits/Certificates
As a condition of MID system incentives, customer agrees that MID retains all rights
and ownership to “renewable energy credits” (RECs) or certificates for greenhouse gas
emissions and other future “renewable” and/or “environmental” credits or certificates
for as long as the PV system is interconnected to the MID distribution system. MID
may trade and/or utilize these credits as deemed necessary and valuable for the
benefit of all MID ratepayers.

Permanency
Equipment is intended to be in place for the duration of its useful life. Only
permanently installed systems are eligible for incentives. This means that the PV
system must demonstrate adequate assurances of both physical and contractual
permanence prior to receiving an incentive.
Physical permanence is to be
demonstrated in accordance with industry practice permanently installed equipment.
Equipment must be secured to a permanent surface. Any indication of portability,
including, but not limited to, temporary structures, quick disconnects, unsecured
equipment, wheels, carrying handles, dolly, trailer or platform, will deem the system
ineligible.
Relocation within MID service territory is considered on a case by case basis. Systems
that have been relocated are not eligible for additional MID incentives. Additional
fees/charges may apply. Contact MID before relocating PV system.
Relocation of PV systems outside MID service territory, within 20 years of
interconnection is not allowed. MID will seek to recover the unrealized portion of the
incentive.

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System Completion
The final permit, incentive claim form and copies of paid invoices may be submitted in
person, may be submitted by mail or may be emailed to: pv@mid.org.

Field Verification and Interconnection Inspection
The Applicant’s
representatives.

project

will

be

field

verified

by

Modesto

Irrigation

District

Receipt of the following documentation will initiate the inspection process:
Copy of final approved permit (city or county) - The approved final inspection permit
(city or county) must be received no later than the expiration date of the reservation
approval letter.
 The system will be inspected and interconnected (if MID Electric Service Rules
are met) within 10 business days.
 Systems that fail to meet MID requirements may be charged a Re-inspection
Fee and a new city / county inspection may be required.
 Systems that fail interconnection inspection will be allowed 30 calendar days
from the original interconnection request to correct all issues and submit a new
permit (if required) to remain eligible for incentive.
Photograph(s) of installed panels – MID must be able to verify panels were installed
as approved.

After Interconnection
After interconnection, a notice of Permission to Operate is mailed to the customer.
The following documents must be received within 10 days of interconnection:
Incentive Claim Form – Available at www.mid.org.
Copies of Paid Invoices - Projected MID incentives should not be itemized in the
project cost. All documentation must be legible.
If invoice(s) and/or required documentation are not received as detailed above, the
applicant may no longer be eligible for MID incentive.

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S
Solar PV Incentive
e Program
m Flow Chart
C

M
MID Solar PV Ha
andbook

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Expected Performance-Based Incentive Calculation
The Program provides an incentive based on the expected performance (i.e., expected
annual generated electricity), of a PV system installed in a specific location. The EPBI
is determined by analysis using the www.csi-epbb.com tool. The analysis accounts for
the tested and certified performance of the specific module and inverter, the mounting
type and cell temperature, the orientation and tilt of the modules, and the extent to
which the system is shaded. The PV calculator accounts for these parameters that are
under the control of the installer, as well as the solar and climatic conditions for the
locale of the building to determine the estimated performance over a year. The
kilowatt-hour (kWh) production of an applicant system is compared to the kWh
production of a reference system. The calculator establishes a performance ratio
between the reference system and the proposed system. This ratio is known as the
Design Factor. The maximum design factor for EPBI is 100%.
The calculator uses the reference system shown in the following table:
Reference PV System & Installation
Parameters
Location

Recalculate Incentive based on inspected
EPBB calculator results. If new incentive is
within 5% of submitted incentive, then
notify Applicant of a new incentive amount
change.

Applicant accepts the
incentive amount
change or disputes
with PA for resolution

No

Results outside set
tolerance and not within
5% of submitted
Incentive.

Recalculate Incentive based on inspected
EPBB calculator results. If new incentive is
not within 5% of submitted incentive, then
notify
Applicant of a new incentive amount
change and issue a Failure.

Applicant accepts the
incentive amount
change or disputes
with PA for resolution

Yes

If a system fails a field inspection, the customer and/or contractor will be notified with
the reasons for the field inspection failure. Inspection Fee(s) may apply. (See MID
Electric Service Rules 15 and 16 and Appendix A.)
 A new permit is required for all inspections failed for electrical issues.
 A new permit is not required for placard modification.

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Systems Ineligible for Incentive
Requirements
The solar PV system must be installed and verified as specified in this handbook. MID
reserves the right to periodically review and make changes to rebate qualification
standards and to determine final interconnection eligibility.
All documentation must be legible.
To qualify for interconnection, both the building and the installed PV system must
meet the following program requirements included in this handbook.

Eligibility
The electrical service for the building must receive retail electricity distribution service
at the site of installation from Modesto Irrigation District.
 Solar PV systems where MID has built an electrical line extension (MID Rule 15)
to serve a new load within the last three years are not eligible for Solar PV
interconnection.
 PV systems must be installed on the property that is owned by the MID
Customer of Record.

System Size
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System size is determined by the Go Solar California EPBB Calculator (www.csiepbb.com).
The solar PV system must have a minimum capacity rating of 1 kWAC-CSI.
Maximum system per customer not to exceed 1 MWAC-CSI. Customer is
determined by MID Account Number, MID Meter Number and Federal Tax
Identification Number(s).
MID reserves the right to determine maximum system size.

Installation
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Premises with multiple electric meters will be limited to one PV system per
meter. MID will not increase transformer/service capacity to facilitate PV
generation under this program.
The solar PV system must be interconnected to the utility distribution grid and
generate electricity to offset the end-use consumer’s on-site electrical load.
The solar PV system must be located on the same premises of the end-use
consumer where the consumer’s own electrical demand is located.
Where multiple PV systems are installed, separate monitoring systems must be
maintained for each installation.
Eligible PV systems must be permanently mounted and not to a mobile
structure. In addition, the building permit for the solar system must be
approved by the building code enforcement.
Systems must be installed in conformance with the manufacturer’s
specifications and all applicable electrical and building codes and standards.

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All systems must be inspected by a certified contractor (written verification
required for system approval).
Solar installers must have an active “A” or “C-10” license to install solar PV
system 20kW CEC-AC or greater. Acceptable licenses for all other systems
include active “A”, “C-10”,”B”, or “C-46”.
Systems must be installed by an appropriately licensed contractor, in
accordance with rules and regulations adopted by the California Contractors
State License Board.
MID requires the installation of MID performance (generation) meter measuring
the alternating current output of the PV system.
Systems must meet MID standards. Please review the MID Electric Service
Rules for complete details.

PV System Modification
The installation of additional panels or other system modifications without MID
approval is prohibited. MID reserves the right to inspect and verify all interconnected
systems at any time.
Failure to notify MID of PV system modification(s) may affect interconnection
eligibility. MID must be notified of all solar PV installations and /or modifications. Any
change in application sizing after the submittal of an application, no matter how small,
up or down, will require a revised application, interconnection agreement, site plan,
single line diagram and EPBB worksheets.

Solar PV System Completion for Leased or PPA System
The approved final inspection permit (city or county) must be made available to MID
personnel, prior to interconnection and is subject to MID field verification (See Field
Verification and Interconnection Inspection above).
After interconnection, a notice of Permission to Operate is mailed to the customer.

Field Verification and Interconnection Inspection
The project will be field verified by a Modesto Irrigation District representative.
Receipt of the following documentation will initiate the inspection process:
 Copy of final approved permit (city or county)
 Photograph(s) of installed panels
Interconnection is contingent on the field inspection visit and may be adjusted
depending on the results of the field inspection. In all cases, the equipment indicated
in the Approval for Leased, Rented and PPA Systems application must match the
equipment observed during the field verification process.

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MID provides for some tolerances in system design as follows:
Applicant
Action

Recalculate Incentive based on
inspected EPBB calculator results. If
new incentive is within 5% of submitted
incentive, then notify Applicant of a
new incentive amount change.

Applicant accepts the
incentive amount change
or disputes with PA for
resolution

No

Results outside set
tolerance and not within
5% of submitted
Incentive.

Recalculate Incentive based on
inspected EPBB calculator results. If
new incentive is not within 5% of
submitted incentive, then notify
Applicant of a new incentive amount
change and issue a Failure.

Applicant accepts the
incentive amount
change or disputes with
PA for resolution

Yes

If a system fails a field inspection, the customer and/or contractor will be notified with
the reasons for the field inspection failure. Re-inspection fee(s) may apply. (See MID
Electric Service Rules and Appendix A.)
 A new permit is required for all inspections failed for electrical issues.
 A new permit is not required for placard modification.
MID will exercise their judgment in assessing fraud, which can occur due to gross
negligence or intentional submission of inaccurate system information in an attempt to
collect more incentive dollars. The responsible party will be immediately prohibited
from participating in the program.

Approval Process for Leased or PPA Systems
Once the system owner has decided to install a solar system and has an executed
contract with their system installer, the System Approval application is submitted in
the first step of the application process.
Once the Approval for Leased, Rented and PPA Systems application is approved, an
acceptance letter confirming the system has been approved for installation.

Renewable Energy Credits/Certificates
REC’s for leased, rented or PPA systems are owned by the customer or the assigned
agent. If a customer elects to receive compensation for excess generation, MID owns
the REC’s generated by the excess generation.

Permanency
Systems that did not receive an incentive can be relocated to other areas. Additional
fees / charges may apply. Contact MID before relocating PV system.

Note to contractors: Contractors with the required licensing are encouraged
to participate in MID rebate programs. If information on application or
supporting documentation includes misleading or fraudulent data, the rebate
may be denied and the contractor may not be allowed to participate in MID
rebate programs.

Completed Rebate Reservation Request Form/Program Contract
(current version required)
Completed System Approval for Leased and PPA Systems (current
version required)
Details for Multiple Arrays Form
(required if more than one array in system)
Copy of contract with vendor/contractor

Copy of City / County Permit
Pictures of installed PV system (including panels)

Required for Systems Eligible for Incentive

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MID Solar PV Handbook

Incentive Claim Form
Copies of all paid invoices

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Grid Interconnection
Qualifying PV systems must be grid-connected. This means that the PV system must
be electrically connected (on the customer’s property) to the MID electric system
serving the customer’s load. The interconnection of the customer’s PV system must
comply with all applicable electrical codes, MID interconnection requirements and MID
Electric Service Guidelines.

Electrical Interconnection and Net Metering Agreements
Customers installing a Solar PV system and customers requesting service at an
existing service with a Solar PV system are required to submit an Electrical
Interconnection Agreement and a Net Metering Agreement. Net metering is designed
to off-set the customer’s existing load. Oversized systems are not eligible for net
metering.
Customers modifying an existing Solar PV system and customers moving in to a
service with existing PV system are required to submit new Interconnection and Net
Metering Agreements for approval prior to interconnection with MID.

Electrical Interconnection Agreement
The Electrical Interconnection Agreement allows the customer to interconnect their
generating system with the MID electric system. MID reserves the right to inspect
and verify all interconnected systems at any time.

Net Metering Agreement
The Net Metering Payment Agreement includes an election for compensation for
surplus energy generated. Surplus energy compensation is disbursed on an annual
basis. The option cannot be changed more the one in a 12-month period. If an
option is not selected, no compensation for net surplus energy will be given.
Net Metering Options
Option 1
Option 2
Option 3

MID Engineering and Meter Department Approval
New PV systems and existing systems that are being modified must meet MID
standards. Please review the MID Electric Service Rules for complete details.

Third-Party Field Verification & Diagnostic Testing
Third-party field verification may be conducted to assess whether systems have been
installed consistent with the characteristics used to determine estimated performance.

must be conducted to ensure that the components of the solar system and its
installation are consistent with the characteristics used to determine its estimated
performance. Field verification is a value-added service that provides quality control
and can protect the builder, contractor and supplier, and business or homeowner.
In cases of new construction, the applicant must provide to the installer and rater a
site plan that for each lot:
 identifies the species of all pre-existing, planted and planned trees and the
location and height of any structures which will be built on the lot and
neighboring lots of the building with the solar system; and
 shows the bearing of the property lines and the azimuth and tilt or roof pitch of
each PV array; and
 locations of meters and A/C disconnect; and
 distance between meters and A/C disconnect; and
 obstacles, i.e. fence, other buildings, that may affect the line of site of meters
and A/C disconnect).

Relationship to Other Codes, Standards and Verification
The local jurisdiction must issue a building permit for the qualifying PV system, either
as a separate permit or as part of the new residential building permit, and the PV
system must meet all applicable electrical code, structural code and building code
requirements. In addition, MID has standards regarding interconnection to the
electric grid and other matters.
The field verification and diagnostic testing
procedures described in this document do not substitute for normal electrical,
structural or building plan check or field inspection nor do they substitute for field
verification by MID regarding interconnection to the electric grid.

Field Verification Visual Inspection
The purpose of the visual inspection described in this protocol is to verify that the
module and inverter specified in the EPBB Calculator printout is the same as the
installed equipment. The inspector shall use binoculars or another means to view the
installation without being required to get on the roof, and shall verify the models and
numbers of modules. The inspector may rely on photographic evidence provided by
the installer on the models and numbers of modules, standoff distance and shading,
but in the absence of such evidence, must rely on a conservative determination based
solely on their own observation.

PV Modules
The PV installer and the inspector must verify that the same number of each make
and model number of PV modules used in the expected performance calculations are
installed in the field. The PV installer and inspector must also verify the module
mounting type (flush mounted BIPV or rack mounted) and in the case of rack
mounted modules, the standoff distance of the modules above the mounting surface.

Inverters
The PV installer and inspector must verify that the make and model of inverters used
in the expected performance calculations are installed in the field.
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Tilt and Azimuth
The PV installer and the inspector must verify that the tilt and orientation (azimuth) of
the PV modules installed in the field match the values that were used to determine the
expected performance of each solar system, within ± 5°. In some systems, PV
modules may be installed in multiple arrays with different tilts and azimuths. In these
cases the tilt and azimuth of each array must be verified.
Determining Tilt - The tilt angle of the PV modules is measured in degrees from
the horizontal (e.g. horizontal PV modules will have a tilt of zero and vertically
mounted PV modules will have a tilt of 90°). The tilt of the PV modules may be
determined in the following ways:
Using the Building Plans - The as-built or construction drawings for the
residential building will state the slope of the roof, usually as the ratio of rise to
run. If the PV modules are mounted in the plane of the roof then the slope of
the PV modules is the same as the slope of the roof. Table 1 may be used to
convert rise to run ratios to degrees of tilt.

Conversion of Roof Pitch to Tilt
The tilt in full degrees so as to match the inputs available on the EPBB calculator.
Actual degrees have been rounded to the nearest whole digit.
Roof Pitch (Rise:Run)
2:12
3:12
4:12
5:12
6:12
7:12
8:12
9:12
10:12
11:12
12:12

Tilt *(degrees)
10
14
18
23
27
30
34
37
40
43
45

Using a Digital Protractor - A digital protractor may be used to measure either
horizontal or vertical angles. These devices when sighted up the slope of the PV
modules from the ground will display the slope, relative to the horizontal.
Determining Orientation (Azimuth) - The convention that is used for measuring
azimuth is to determine the degrees of angle clockwise from north, e.g., north
azimuth is zero degrees, east is 90°, south is 180° and west is 270°.

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T
The followin
ng methods may be use
ed to determ
mine the azim
muth.
Using the Site
e Plans - In new sub
bdivisions, the house
e plans wiill often no
ot show
the property lines since
e the plan
ns are ussed on mu
ultiple lots
s. Howev
ver, the
subd
division plo
ot plan willl show the
e property
y lines of tthe lots. T
The plot p
plan will
show
w the bearring of the property lines, and from this informatio
on the azim
muth of
the roof surfac
ces where
e the PV modules
m
arre mounted
d may be determine
ed from
the position
p
of the house on
o the lot re
elative to the
e bearings o
of the prope
erty lines.
Using a Comp
pass – Use
e a compa
ass with a sighting ffeature an
nd an adju
ustment
for magnetic
m
declination
d
n. Make sure
s
that the compa
ass has a sighting ffeature.
The compass may have an adjusttment buillt in for m
magnetic de
eclination so that
the reading
r
on
n the comp
pass is true
e north.
Adju
Position
ust the com
mpass rea
ading to account forr the mag
gnetic decllination. P
the compass and deterrmine the array azim
muth angle between compas
ss north
and the directtion that the
t
PV mo
odules face
e. It’s ussually conv
venient an
nd most
accu
urate to allign the co
ompass along the e
edge of th
he array u
using the s
sighting
featu
ure.
Veriffying Tilt and
a
Azimutth for Systtems Meetting the Fle
exible Insttallation Criteria Modesto
Irrigation
District
allows
dete
ermination of expectted performance
using the Flexible Insttallation criteria,
whic
ch bases th
he estimatted performance
on an
a estimate
e of the pe
erformance for a
rang
ge of module orienttations and
d tilts.
The Flexible Installation
n criteria applies
a
to all
a solar sy
ystems th
hat are installed
with an azimu
uth ranging
g from 150° and
°
270 and all modules installed at the
same tilt as the roof slope fo
or roof
pitch
hes betwee
en 1:12 an
nd 7:12.

S
Shading Verificatio
V
n
S
Shading co
onditions at
a the sitte must be
b consisttent with those us
sed in the
e EPBB
C
Calculator printout. The estimated performanc
p
ce calcula
ations will be done
e either
a
assuming that
t
the “m
minimal sh
hading” crriterion is m
met or bassed on the
e specific s
shading
c
characteris
stics of eac
ch system and building.
T
The “minim
mal shading” criterio
on is that no
n obstructtion is closser than a distance ((“D”) of
ttwice the height
h
(“H”) it exten
nds above the PV mo
odules (se
ee PV Userr’s Guide fo
ound at
tthe EPBB Calculator
C
website www.csi-e
w
pbb.com).. The disttance “D” must be at least
ttwo times greater than
t
the distance
d
“H
H.” Any obstruction that pro
ojects abo
ove any
p
portion of the PV array mustt meet this criterion
n for the PV array to be con
nsidered
erion inclu
m
minimally shaded. Obstruction
O
ns that are
e subject tto this crite
ude:
himney, architectur
a
al feature
e, mechan
nical equipment orr other
 Any vent, ch
obsttruction tha
at projects
s above the roof of tthe residen
ntial building;
 Any part of the
e neighborring terrain that projjects abov
ve the rooff:
M
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andbook

Pag
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







Any tree tha
at is
the
matu
ure
at
time
e of installa
ation
of
the
solar
s
syste
em;
Any
exis
sting
neighboring
build
ding;
Any telephone
e or
othe
er utility pole
p
that is closer than thirty
y feet from
m the nea
arest pointt of the
array
y.
Obsttructions that
t
are located nortth of the a
array at az
zimuths between 30
05º and
55º from nortth relative to the mo
ost northe
erly pointss on the PV
V array ne
eed not
be considered
c
as shadin
ng obstruc
ctions. Th
he contracctor and M
MID / thirrd party
inspe
ector may
y verify thrrough visual inspectiion that m
most obstru
uctions above the
roof meet the
e 2:1 crite
erion. Forr obstructi ons that visual ins
spection in
ndicates
pote
entially do not meett the criterion, the PV contracctor and M
MID / thirrd party
inspe
ector must measure
e the heigh
ht and disttance of th
he obstructtion(s) relative to
the PV
P array as
a describe
ed above to verify th
hat the 2:1
1 shading c
criterion is
s met.

A
Accountiing for Ac
ctual Sha
ading
W
When a PV
V installatio
on does not meet th
he minima
al shading criterion, it can still qualify
ffor an ince
entive and
d participate in the program, but the sshading co
onditions fo
or each
s
solar systtem at th
he site must
m
be accounted
a
for in the expected perfo
ormance
c
calculation as describ
bed in this
s section.

M
Measuring
g Shade Im
mpact
O
One of the
e following procedure
es may be used to m
measure he
eights and
d distances
s or
a
altitude an
ngles to ob
bstructions.
Using a Solar Assessme
A
nt Tool – For
F shading from existing obsttructions, such as
neighboring buildings or other structures, tterrain or already m
mature tre
ees, onsite shading conditions
can be ve
c
erified usi ng an instrument s
such as th
he Solar
Path
hfinder or SunEye.
S
Follow
F
the manufactu
urer’s instructions ca
arefully to
o ensure
accu
urate readings.
The measurem
ments shalll be made
e at all the
e major co
orners of tthe array with no
adjacent meas
surement being mo
ore than 4
40 feet apart (see e
example in
n figure
below). The points of measurem
ment shall be distrib
buted eve
enly betwe
een two
majo
or corners if they arre more th
han 40 fee
et apart su
uch that th
he linear d
distance
betw
ween any sequential
s
points is no more than 40 fe
eet. Howe
ever, if any
y linear
edge
e of the arrray has no obstructtions that are closerr than two times the
e height
they
y project above the
e closest point on the arra
ay, then the interm
mediate
measurements
s along tha
at edge do
o not need to be made.
Exam
mple of Points where Measu
urements sha
all be made w
when using so
olar assessme
ent tool (overa
all
dimen
nsion 76’ x 50
0’) ‘

M
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Verification of System Performance
System performance verification is important to ensure all parties are receiving the
proper benefits of the system.
For systems that have two or more strings connected in parallel to the same inverter,
the following applies:
 Complete a visual check of the system to ensure the modules and all other
system components are bolted securely, and all wiring connections have been
made properly according to the system schematic, manufacturer’s instructions,
and applicable electrical code requirements.
 Check the polarity of all source circuits to be correct.
 The open circuit voltages of source circuits shall be tested and measured to be
within 2 percent of each other.
 The short circuit currents shall be tested and measured to be within 5% of each
other.
 Indicate on the Request for Payment form in the appropriate section that the
above has been completed.
For systems that have only one string connected to a single inverter or for systems
using micro-inverters, the following applies:
 Record Temperature and Irradiance as discussed below.
 Examine Field Verification Output (FVO) table (at end of section) for the
percentage shown given the measured temperature and irradiance. Always
round temperature up to the next block. So, 47° rounds up to 55° on the chart.
 Multiply the CEC-AC (from EPBB printout) times the FVO percentage to get
estimated system output.
 Compare estimated system output with actual output. If actual system output
is higher, system is operating within expectations. If estimated output is
higher, perform additional diagnostics and correct any issues as the system may
not be performing properly.
 Enter the appropriate values on the Request for Payment form.
Verification of system performance must be performed after the PV system is installed
and connected to the electricity grid. Measurements must be made with a minimum
irradiance of 300 W/m² in a plane parallel to the array. The contractor and MID /
third party inspector must 1) measure the solar irradiance in a plane parallel to the
array 2) measure the ambient air temperature. The contractor and MID third party
inspector must then observe the output AC power displayed on the inverter and verify
that the output AC power is at least the amount shown in the table for the field
measured conditions.
To qualify for the incentive, PV systems must have a
performance meter or an inverter that has a built in meter that measures output AC
power.

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Measuring Solar Irradiance
Solar irradiance must be measured by using a solar pyranometer. When making this
measurement, the PV contractor and MID / third party inspector must place the
pyranometer in a plane that is parallel to the PV modules. The PV installer should
position the pyranometer on top of the PV modules or on the roof next to the PV
modules. MID / third party inspector who is not likely to be able to get on the roof
must position the pyranometer such that it is in full sun and is in plane that is parallel
to the PV modules. Digital protractors or other instruments may be used to properly
position the pyranometer.

Measuring Ambient Air Temperature
Ambient air temperature must be measured with a digital thermometer in the shade.
The instrument must have an accuracy of ± 2°C.

Observing Output AC Power at the Inverter
The contractor and MID / third party inspector must observe and record the reading
within five minutes of the time the measurements of solar irradiation and ambient
temperature were made. Note that the inverter may cycle between multiple readings
(total kWh of production, output power, etc.), so the contractor and MID / third party
inspector will need to wait until the power is displayed and record this reading;
several readings should be made to make sure that they are consistent and stable.

Multiple Orientation Arrays
For larger systems, PV modules connected to the same inverter may be installed with
strings of equal numbers of modules connected in parallel in more than one
orientation, each with its own tilt and azimuth (note that it is bad practice to install
such strings in series or with a different number of modules in each string; either of
these installations will lead to substantial reductions in performance). When strings
are installed in multiple orientation arrays to the same inverter, separate EPBB
Calculator printouts must be prepared for each orientation and solar irradiance must
be measured separately in a plane parallel to each string that has a different azimuth
and tilt. The expected output AC power is determined separately for each condition
and the sum is used for verification purposes.

Using the Field Verification Output Table
Example: 3.5 kW AC system measured at 65o F and with an irradiance of 900 watts/m2.
The FVO shows 68%. So 3.5 kW x .68 (68%) = 2.38 kW. As long as the inverter output
reads higher than 2.38 kW (2,380 W), the system is performing sufficiently.

Site Plan- See MID Electric Service Guide for requirements.
 Number of panels / orientation does not match EPBB and/or application
 Location of MID equipment not included
 Gates and/fences not included
 Gates must be marked as locked or unlocked (MID access required).
Single


